Connecticut House Bill HB05339

Connecticut 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/13/23

Caption

An Act Reestablishing The Family With Service Needs Program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05339 would amend Title 46b of the general statutes, effectively reinstating and reinforcing the state's commitment to support vulnerable youth and families. The reestablishment of this program could lead to increased state resources allocated towards family services, focusing on preventive rather than punitive measures. Such changes may result in a reduction of juvenile crime rates and improvements in school attendance and engagement among the affected population.

Summary

House Bill 05339 aims to reestablish the Family With Service Needs Program, which is designed to offer diversion services for children who are deemed beyond control, runaways, or truant from school. The program’s primary goal is to provide these at-risk children with support and resources that may prevent them from entering the juvenile justice system. This legislative effort reflects an increasing recognition of the need for proactive measures to assist families in crisis and to divert minors from more punitive approaches.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 05339 may arise from debates on funding and implementation strategies for the program. Critics might express concerns regarding the adequacy of resources to effectively support the proposed services and the success metrics that will be used to evaluate the program's efficacy. Additionally, discussions could center on potential legislative amendments to ensure that the program is comprehensive and addresses the diverse needs of at-risk youth and their families.